Tue Oct 15 03:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Clippers Star Kawhi Leonard Remains Uncertain for Season Opener Due to Knee Inflammation
**INGLEWOOD, Calif.** – LA Clippers star Kawhi Leonard will miss the remainder of the preseason due to inflammation in his right knee, raising concerns about his availability for the season opener on October 23rd.
Leonard has yet to play in any preseason games, sitting out all four contests due to the ongoing knee issue. Coach Ty Lue confirmed that Leonard will not participate in Thursday’s finale against the Sacramento Kings.
While Leonard has reported feeling much better, he and the Clippers are taking a cautious approach to his return. The two-time Finals MVP is prioritizing long-term health and wants to avoid the knee inflammation that plagued him last season.
Leonard underwent surgery on his ACL and meniscus in the past, and the Clippers are managing his workload carefully.
President of Basketball Operations Lawrence Frank said that Leonard still has some inflammation in his knee and that the team wants to avoid contact drills to ensure his safety.
The Clippers will need to determine the best approach for Leonard’s playing schedule, potentially including sitting him out of back-to-back games to manage his health.
Leonard’s status for the season opener remains uncertain, but the Clippers are hopeful that he will be ready to lead the team in their new home arena, the Intuit Dome, on October 23rd against the Phoenix Suns.